15 Easy Chicken Leg Recipes

You're about to discover a collection of chicken leg recipes that'll transform your weeknight dinner routine. These 15 approachable dishes range from crispy baked classics to exotic Asian-inspired flavors, each requiring minimal prep time and basic ingredients you likely have in your pantry. Whether you're cooking for a family gathering or meal prepping for the week, these foolproof methods will help you achieve tender, flavorful results that'll make you rethink how you prepare this budget-friendly cut of meat.

Classic Crispy Baked Chicken Legs

Classic crispy baked chicken legs are a timeless favorite that combines the perfect balance of juicy meat and crackling skin. This simple yet satisfying dish requires minimal preparation while delivering maximum flavor, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The secret to achieving that coveted crispy exterior lies in properly preparing the skin and maintaining the right oven temperature. When done correctly, these baked chicken legs develop a golden-brown crust while keeping the meat underneath moist and tender.

• 8 chicken legs (drumsticks)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a large bowl, combine olive oil with all the seasonings, then coat the chicken legs thoroughly with the mixture. Place the seasoned legs on a baking rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet, ensuring they don't touch each other.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through cooking. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

For the best results, bring the chicken legs to room temperature 20-30 minutes before cooking, and avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking as this will release heat and affect the crisping process. If the skin isn't as crispy as desired after the cooking time, switch to broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Honey Garlic Glazed Drumsticks

Honey garlic glazed drumsticks combine the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, creating a dish that's both comforting and impressive. The natural sweetness of honey pairs beautifully with the pungent garlic, while the chicken legs remain juicy on the inside and develop a sticky, caramelized exterior during cooking.

This recipe takes about 45 minutes to prepare and cook, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners or weekend family meals. The glaze can be prepared ahead of time, and the finished dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1/3 cup honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, black pepper, paprika, salt, and red pepper flakes to create the glaze. Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels and place them in a large baking dish, then coat them thoroughly with the honey garlic mixture.

Bake the drumsticks for 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking. Baste the chicken with the pan juices every 10-15 minutes to develop a rich, glossy glaze. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and caramelized.

For best results, allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. The honey in the glaze can burn easily, so keep a close eye on the drumsticks during the last 10 minutes of cooking. If the glaze starts to darken too quickly, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the chicken to cook through completely.

Mediterranean Herb Roasted Chicken Legs

Mediterranean Herb Roasted Chicken Legs combines the rich flavors of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano with the bright, sunny essence of lemon and garlic. This classic Mediterranean preparation brings out the natural flavors of the chicken while creating a crispy skin and juicy interior.

This dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, requiring minimal prep work while delivering maximum flavor. The Mediterranean herbs not only infuse the meat with their aromatic qualities but also create an inviting fragrance throughout your kitchen as the chicken roasts to perfection.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs (thigh and drumstick attached)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 sliced)
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, sliced

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken legs and coat thoroughly, massaging the herb mixture under the skin where possible. Arrange the chicken legs in a roasting pan, skin side up, and scatter the onion and lemon slices around them. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.

Roast for 45-50 minutes, basting occasionally with pan juices, until the skin is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.

For best results, bring the chicken legs to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking, and pat them dry with paper towels before applying the herb mixture. If using dried herbs instead of fresh, reduce the amounts by half. The pan juices can be reduced on the stovetop to create a flavorful sauce for serving.

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs are a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy tender, fall-off-the-bone meat with minimal effort. The low and slow cooking method ensures the chicken remains juicy while allowing the BBQ sauce to caramelize and create a sticky, delicious coating.

This recipe combines the simplicity of slow cooking with the bold flavors of barbecue sauce, creating a dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. The chicken legs become incredibly tender during the cooking process, and the sauce develops a deep, rich flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 8-10 chicken legs
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Place chicken legs in the slow cooker after seasoning them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix the BBQ sauce with brown sugar, minced garlic, and diced onions, then pour over the chicken legs. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

For the best results, baste the chicken legs with the sauce every 2-3 hours if possible. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the lid to allow the sauce to thicken and create a more concentrated flavor. If you prefer a crispier skin, transfer the chicken legs to a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.

For optimal results, avoid overcrowding the slow cooker and arrange the legs in a single layer if possible. The sauce can be adjusted to taste by adding more brown sugar for sweetness or cayenne pepper for heat. Leftover chicken legs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.

Asian-Style Soy Ginger Drumsticks

Asian-Style Soy Ginger Drumsticks deliver a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors that transform ordinary chicken legs into an irresistible Asian-inspired dish. The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and honey creates a glossy glaze that coats each drumstick, while garlic and sesame oil add depth and authenticity to the overall taste profile.

This recipe requires minimal preparation but delivers maximum flavor, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining. The drumsticks can be marinated ahead of time, allowing the meat to absorb the flavors fully while tenderizing for a more succulent result.

Ingredients:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken drumsticks and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the drumsticks on a lined baking sheet, reserving the marinade. Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with the reserved marinade every 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is caramelized and glossy.

While the chicken cooks, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Once the drumsticks are done, brush them with the reduced sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

For best results, bring the chicken to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking, and pat the drumsticks dry before marinating to help the sauce adhere better. The key to achieving perfectly caramelized skin is to ensure the oven is fully preheated and to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. If doubling the recipe, use two baking sheets rather than cramming all pieces onto one.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Legs

Spicy Buffalo chicken legs are a classic crowd-pleaser that brings the perfect combination of heat and flavor to any casual dining occasion. Whether you're hosting a game day party or just craving some comfort food, these zesty chicken legs deliver that authentic Buffalo wing experience without requiring deep frying.

The key to achieving the perfect Buffalo chicken legs lies in getting that crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy. This recipe uses a two-step cooking process that ensures the chicken is thoroughly cooked while maintaining the signature Buffalo wing texture that everyone loves.

• 8-10 chicken legs
• 1 cup Frank's RedHot sauce
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Blue cheese or ranch dressing for serving
• Celery sticks for serving

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Place the legs on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, turning halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the Buffalo sauce by combining the hot sauce, melted butter, and vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and warm. Once the chicken is done, transfer the legs to a large bowl and toss them with the warm Buffalo sauce until thoroughly coated.

For best results, let the chicken legs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to adhere better to the skin. If you prefer extra-crispy skin, you can broil the sauce-coated legs for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. The sauce can be adjusted for heat preference by varying the ratio of hot sauce to butter – more butter creates a milder sauce, while more hot sauce increases the heat level.

Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Legs

Lemon pepper chicken legs are a classic comfort food that combines the bright, citrusy notes of lemon with the bold kick of black pepper. This simple yet flavorful dish creates a perfect balance of tastes while maintaining the natural juiciness of dark meat chicken.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and accessibility. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that's perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The crispy skin and tender meat make this dish a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

6-8 chicken legs

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning

1 teaspoon kosher salt

2 fresh lemons

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. In a large bowl, coat the chicken legs with olive oil, then thoroughly rub them with lemon pepper seasoning, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. Place the seasoned legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece. Slice one lemon and arrange the rounds between the chicken pieces.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken with the pan juices and squeeze the remaining lemon over the pieces. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to retain its juices.

For best results, bring the chicken legs to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout the meat. If you prefer extra crispy skin, switch the oven to broil for the final 2-3 minutes of cooking, but watch carefully to prevent burning. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Ranch-Seasoned Chicken Drumsticks

Ranch-seasoned chicken drumsticks combine the classic flavor of ranch seasoning with juicy, tender chicken legs for a crowd-pleasing meal that's both economical and delicious. The seasoning creates a flavorful crust while keeping the meat underneath moist and succulent.

This versatile dish can be prepared in the oven, on the grill, or in an air fryer, making it suitable for any season. The ranch seasoning mix can be store-bought or homemade, allowing you to control the sodium content and customize the flavor profile to your preference.

Ingredients:

• 8-10 chicken drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adhesion. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil with ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Add the chicken drumsticks and toss until evenly coated. Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, broil for the final 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

For best results, let the chicken rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking, and allow the cooked drumsticks to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. If using a homemade ranch seasoning mix, reduce the added salt as most ranch seasonings already contain sodium. The drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven at 350°F until warm.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs

Garlic Parmesan chicken legs combine the rich flavors of roasted garlic, nutty Parmesan cheese, and perfectly seasoned chicken for a satisfying main dish. The crispy skin and tender meat make this recipe a family favorite that's both impressive and surprisingly simple to prepare.

This recipe transforms ordinary chicken legs into a restaurant-worthy meal while requiring minimal preparation time. The magic happens when the garlic and Parmesan create a crispy, flavorful crust during baking, while the meat stays juicy and tender underneath.

Ingredients:

• 8 chicken legs
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and all seasonings to create a paste. Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels, then coat each piece thoroughly with the garlic-Parmesan mixture, making sure to get under the skin where possible.

Place the coated chicken legs on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, broil for the final 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

For best results, let the chicken rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking, and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This helps achieve even cooking and keeps the meat juicy. If the garlic begins to brown too quickly during baking, loosely cover the chicken with aluminum foil to prevent burning while ensuring the meat cooks completely.

Sweet and Smoky Grilled Chicken Legs

Sweet and smoky grilled chicken legs offer the perfect combination of flavors that appeal to both adults and children alike. The natural smokiness from the grill combines with a sweet and savory marinade to create chicken that's crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.

This recipe takes advantage of chicken legs' naturally higher fat content, which makes them ideal for grilling as they're more forgiving and less likely to dry out compared to chicken breasts. The marinade includes a balance of sweet elements like brown sugar and honey, complemented by smoky paprika and garlic for depth of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 8 chicken legs
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Mix all marinade ingredients in a large bowl until well combined. Add chicken legs and coat thoroughly, then refrigerate for 2-4 hours or overnight. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F). Oil the grates to prevent sticking. Remove chicken from marinade and discard remaining liquid. Grill chicken legs for 25-30 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

For best results, maintain a two-zone fire on your grill – one side with direct heat and one side with indirect heat. This allows you to move the chicken away from flare-ups caused by dripping fat and gives you better control over cooking temperature. If the outside starts browning too quickly, move the legs to the cooler side of the grill to finish cooking through.

Five-Spice Chinese Chicken Legs

Five-spice Chinese chicken legs are a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings authentic Asian flavors to your dinner table. The combination of five-spice powder, which typically includes star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds, creates a complex and deeply satisfying taste profile.

This recipe transforms ordinary chicken legs into a delicious meal that's both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. The marinade helps tenderize the meat while infusing it with classic Chinese flavors, and the cooking process ensures crispy skin while maintaining juicy meat inside.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 2 tablespoons five-spice powder
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Mix all marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Add chicken legs and coat thoroughly, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken legs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For extra crispiness, broil for the final 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

For best results, bring the chicken legs to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking. Pat the skin dry with paper towels before applying the marinade to ensure better adhesion and crispier skin. Line your baking sheet with aluminum foil to make cleanup easier, and consider placing the chicken on a wire rack above the baking sheet to allow heat circulation for more even cooking.

Cajun-Style Baked Drumsticks

Cajun-spiced chicken drumsticks bring the vibrant flavors of Louisiana straight to your dinner table. The combination of paprika, cayenne, garlic, and herbs creates a perfectly seasoned crust around tender, juicy meat that practically falls off the bone.

This easy-to-prepare dish requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual weekend gatherings. The dry rub penetrates the meat during baking, infusing each bite with bold, spicy flavors while the skin crisps up beautifully in the oven.

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres properly. In a bowl, combine all the dry seasonings and mix well. Coat the drumsticks with olive oil, then thoroughly rub the spice mixture over each piece, ensuring even coverage.

Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece. Bake for 35-40 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.

For best results, let the chicken rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before seasoning, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. The leftover seasoning mixture can be stored in an airtight container for future use, and the cooked drumsticks will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Legs

Greek yogurt marinated chicken legs offer a delightfully tender and flavorful twist on traditional chicken preparations. The natural enzymes and lactic acid in Greek yogurt work to tenderize the meat while infusing it with rich Mediterranean flavors.

This recipe combines the tangy creaminess of Greek yogurt with classic Greek seasonings like oregano, lemon, and garlic to create a dish that's both succulent and aromatic. The marinade not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep the chicken legs moist during cooking.

• 8 chicken legs (drumsticks)
• 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Mix Greek yogurt with garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and all seasonings in a large bowl. Place chicken legs in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 4-24 hours.

When ready to cook, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess, and place on a lined baking sheet.

Bake for 40-45 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

For best results, bring the marinated chicken to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking. Don't discard excess marinade immediately; it can be boiled separately for 5 minutes and used as a sauce. If you prefer crispier skin, broil the chicken for the final 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Legs

Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Legs takes a delicious spin on traditional chicken by incorporating the sweet and tangy flavors of the Pacific islands. The combination of pineapple, soy sauce, and ginger creates a perfect balance that transforms ordinary chicken legs into a tropical delight.

This recipe requires minimal preparation time but delivers maximum flavor, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings. The chicken legs become tender and juicy while developing a beautiful glaze from the marinade during cooking.

• 8 chicken legs
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger in a large bowl. Place chicken legs in the mixture and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken legs in a baking dish, pour half the marinade over them, and arrange pineapple chunks around the chicken. Bake for 45-50 minutes, basting every 15 minutes with the remaining marinade until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown. In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken and return to the oven.

For best results, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The marinade can be boiled separately and reduced to create a sauce for serving, but never use the raw marinade without cooking it first. If the chicken browns too quickly, cover with foil to prevent burning while maintaining moisture.

Herb-Butter Roasted Chicken Legs

Herb-butter roasted chicken legs are a classic comfort dish that combines the richness of butter with aromatic herbs to create a flavorful and tender meal. The butter helps create a crispy, golden-brown skin while keeping the meat underneath moist and succulent.

This simple yet elegant preparation method allows the natural flavors of the chicken to shine while infusing it with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage. The dish requires minimal preparation time but delivers restaurant-quality results that make it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

• 4 chicken legs (thigh and drumstick attached)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, zested
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Gently lift the skin of the chicken legs and spread the herb butter mixture underneath, being careful not to tear the skin. Rub the outside of the chicken with olive oil and any remaining herb butter.

Place the chicken legs on a roasting pan, skin side up. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.

For best results, bring the chicken legs to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking, and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. If fresh herbs aren't available, dried herbs can be substituted at one-third the amount. The butter mixture can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator, but should be brought to room temperature before using.